THE fall-out seems to have settled at Braywick, after Maidenhead Rugby Club’s up-and-down season finally ended in relegation.
However, despite their obvious disappointment, the players and staff are remarkably upbeat about the prospect of a season in South West 2 (East).
Club President Keith Lawton said: “Obviously we are incredibly disappointed but we’ve got to be positive about it. We just need to make sure we come back up as soon as possible.”
Occasional captain and full-time club stalwart Andy Barron thought demotion might actually bring positive outcomes., saying: “To win nine games and get relegated is unfortunate, but it could be good for us. It’s a much easier league we’re going into in terms of time and commitment, but we’re not planning to stay there very long. It will be a big disappointment if we don’t come straight back up.”
Coach Simon Edwards, who is set to quit his role in the summer, was also looking on the bright side of life, following a successful players’ meeting last week.
He said: “We’ve had a very, very positive meeting, but it’s not just talk. We will be back next year.”
But perhaps the most upbeat outlook on the club’s future came from skipper Jody Dance.
He said: “Obviously we’re not happy about going down, but there’s been a lot going on behind the scenes and we are now looking to win back-to-back promotions and reach the national league within two years. There’s going to be a whole new approach to rugby at the club. It’s a more professional game these days and we’ve got to get with the times.”